True-to-life anatomical structures: A pedicle screw driven into a 3D-printed model of a patient's spine. Image courtesy of Stratasys.

BioMimics is being offered initially in North America as a service through Stratasys Direct Manufacturing. It eliminates restrictions associated with training, research, and testing on animal, mannequin, or cadaver models, Stratasys said. BioMimics mirrors the soft tissue and hard bones via multimaterial 3D printing combining Stratasys' PolyJet 3D printing technology alongside new materials and software.

Also, OEMs can gain real-time feedback on device performance in realistic environments, according to the firm.

BioMimics is initially designed to model the complexities of heart and bone structures -- with vascular anatomies expected in early 2018.

Stratasys is demonstrating BioMimics at the RSNA 2017 meeting in Chicago.

Philips teams with 3D Systems, Stratasys on 3D printing
Royal Philips, the parent company of Philips Healthcare, has announced agreements with 3D printing technology firms 3D Systems and Stratasys at RSNA...

Stratasys to launch 3D printing network across VA
3D printing technology firm Stratasys is building a collaborative 3D printing hospital network for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).